From Merriam Webster: a system, organization, or society in which people are chosen and moved into positions of success, power, and influence on the basis of t

From Merriam Webster: a system, organization, or society in which people are chosen and moved into positions of success, power, and influence on the basis of their demonstrated abilities and merit. A meritocracy only cares about demonstrated ability. If the kids next door could afford a better tutor, they probably have a greater demonstrated ability than you. They would still succeed under their own merit.